Welcome to The Andean Ampitheatre: Santiago

Santiago:

Set amidst the haze of the Andes, Santiago speaks volumes for the progress of Latin America as a thriving economic hub of the western world. The tall skyscrapers, trendy roof top bars and chic urban eateries all speak to the world as if to say “look at us, we are just as good”. That combined with the setting, the juxtaposition of the man made against the geographical gems of the mountains in the background, make for an unparalleled view in any city setting I have been to prior.

In the shadows of the Andes, wide boulevards and leafy riverside parks provide unrivaled city walks whilst side stepping cyclists and skate boarders, for those unable to get into the mountains, but keen to feel part of the outdoor world.

Sleepy by day and at its charismatic, charming best at night - visitors to Santiago will be left pinching themselves that they are still in Latin America. Santiago is the Latino leader in its ability to share the western homogenization with the European sophistication and elegance.

As a Londoner, I felt a little envious of what Santiago has to offer. Vancouver like proximity to mountain sports, a few hours to some of the best surf in the world - and that is only if you ever feel the need to leave this magnificent city. Until you feel that pull, fine dine in Patio Bellavista, dance in some of the worlds best clubs and get lost in a cultural gem of the Southern Hemisphere.

What is not to love?

Our top tips:

How to get around:

Like much of Latin America, the Uber’s are cheap as chips and we always felt safe. We got one to the airport from downtown and it cost us £19.00.

In and around the city - we really recommend using your feet to explore. It is amazing what you see when you allow yourself to navigate between the blocks. But, if you are in a rush - the metro is clean and modern. They only take cash but a trio will cost you 700 pesos. Pretty decent! There seems to be an extensive bus network, but we didn’t use it.

Eating and drinking:

Patio Bellavista is where to go. You will be spoilt for choice and the restaurants all have high quality food and drink. We had a crepe at the French creparie by the entrance - one not to miss. The Maximo Love with banana and strawberry will leave you wanting another!

For sunset don't miss the roof roof top bar at Matilda - which is really cool and offers amazing views of the pink sky at sunset. Prices aren’t cheap but it is worth the money!

Pino nino Street has a load of pubs, bars and restaurants. We had supper at Venezia which is a local hangout and offers typical Chilean affair at affordable prices. Don’t expect much and enjoy the experience.

Our favourite spot spot was the fish market at Mercado Centrale. Around the outside of the market all the touts will encourage you to sit at their restaurant - to be honest we went for the busiest one and were not disappointed. Get the conger al probe. Unreal feed!

In Barrio Lastarria - don’t miss a coffee at one of the coolest coffee spots in Latin America At Bloom Speciality coffee. The coffees are tenderly poured and the baristas are awesome. WiFi is available and seating is limited - it is worth the wait.

Must sees:

Walk to Plaza de Armas. An amazing square with a simply stunning Cathedral making up one quarter of it. Take some time here to take in the atmosphere of the city and enjoy people watching. Locals convene here to play chess and catch up over cigarettes and coffee. a lovely spot!

From here, head to the Parliament buildings adorned with the Chilean flags! A beautiful building steeped in history. Remember to consider the history here before heading on. It will help to take in the museum which you will be sure to go to at some point during your stay. Note this is where many of the free walking tours start from.

From here walk through downtown and the financial courter to the Museo de La Memoria - a difficult learNing experience but one which definitely helps to put the recent dictatorship history into perspective. A must visit when in the city.

From here - with sunset looming head to San a Cristóbal and hike up to the top to get a view of the city as the sun goes down. The view is awesome and you get a really amazing perspective of the city.

Finally, before hitting Bellavista for some food and drink, why not soak in some culture at Estación Mapocho - the old station now converted into a cultural centre. A superb building with cool cafes dotted around the outside.

We were advised to walk through the streets of Londres and Paris. Quaint little cobbled streets with lots of people with little care about social acceptance taking pics! Interesting to see but nothing to write home about.

Whatever you do in this place you‘ll have a great time. We hope this helps!